As a seasoned daytripper to JB, the convenience of heading to Johor Bahru via the Causeway and the myriad of food options near CIQ, including streets like Jalan Trus, Jalan Dhoby and Tan Hiok Nee Street, is unbeatable
There are days when the daily grind wears me down, and I find myself craving a little escape from the repetitive routines of motherhood, even if it’s just for half a day.
A day trip to Johor Bahru has always been high on my list. I actually love wandering through the heritage streets, where every turn seems to reveal a little more character, history, and charm.
After years of wandering these streets, I’ve put together this list to help you make the most of your limited time in Johor Bahru. Simply choose the places that speak to you, then set off and enjoy a little change of scenery!
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Guide to Where to Eat, Chill, Shop Near CIQ: Jalan Trus, Jalan Dhoby and Tan Hiok Nee Street
All the shops are located within walking distances from CIQ checkpoint and JB Sentral, be it from bus terminal, train stations or JB checkpoint. To save more time, you can always choose to hitch a ride from Grab at affordable prices.
I’ve categorised the finds into three main streets. Here it goes!
*Opening hours are accurate at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
Jalan Trus Guide
Exit Komtar shopping mall and cross over towards Hai Di Lao. Take the escalator up and head out of “Zenith Lifestyle Centre”, where you’ll find yourself tucked between Amari Hotel and Shama Suasana Apartment. From here, your Jalan Trus experience begins.
Padi Kopitiam
82-B1, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru
You’ll spot a wall mural on your right, just about a 30second walk away. Once you get there, you’ll find two food spots, and my personal favourite is Padi Kopitiam.
They serve up a lovely selection of local breakfast favourites, but these are the ones I always go for: the 3-layer milk tea, dry mee siam with your choice of toppings, and their goreng pisang (fried banana).
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 am to 5.30 pm
Principle Cafe by T.A.M
82-B, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru
Located right beside Padi Kopitiam, this aesthetically pleasing cafe serves a selection of fusion dishes. We visited once and found the food to be delicious, although the portions felt somewhat modest for the price.
That said, it remains a pleasant spot to ease into the morning, with a quiet atmosphere that makes for a nice little pick-me-up.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 am to 5.30 pm
Ah Ma Teochew Kuih
13, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru
Just a 2min Grab ride away, or about a 10 -15mins walk, you’ll find even more food options waiting to be explored.This one ranks pretty high on my folks’ list, and one we often return to when the kids and I are craving familiar, old school comfort food. Our usual picks include muah chee, braised chicken with porridge, and traditional Teochew kuehs.
The nostalgic interior, inspired by the charm of the ’60s, adds to the experience and makes the visit feel like a little journey back in time. If you happen to be in the area, it’s well worth a visit at least once.
Opening Hours: 7.30 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
Hua Mui JB
131 Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru
Diagonally across from Ah Ma Teochew Kuih is Hua Mui Coffeeshop, where long queues are a familiar sight. It is known for its mix of Hainanese and Western breakfast favourites and comforting dishes.
If you’re a fan of classic Hainanese fare and old school flavours, this one might just be right up your alley.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Jalan Dhoby Guide
Jalan Dhoby is just around the corner from Ah Ma Teochew Kuih, opening up to a charming stretch of mesmerising cafes serving food from hearty meals to tempting desserts.
Before you set foot on Jalan Dhoby, don’t forget to stop by the iconic rainbow staircase for a quick photo. It makes for the perfect little photo op before you begin your cafe hopping adventure!
Pacific Kopi
11, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
Another popular Nanyang style kopitiam that brings you straight back to the olden days with its nostalgic shophouse look and feel.
The biggest crowd favourite is their 3-in-1 fried rice cake, which has even earned a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records. It features crispy fried nian gao paired with thick cut yam and sweet potato. We also tried their egg tarts in Thai Milk Tea and Matcha flavours, and they were pretty good too.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 am to 6 pm
Palates & Bagels by T.A.M
10, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
A cafe you’ll spot across various malls and locations, this place serves loaded, cafe-style brunch bagels alongside coffee.
I’ve yet to step foot into one myself, but after reading through their menu, there are quite a few that have caught my eye. I’d love to try their Spicy Buttermilk Chicken Bagel, Smoked Duck Bagel, and local inspired options like the Ah Seng, which comes with a prawn patty and hae bee hiam mayo, on my next visit with friends.
Open daily from 8 am to 6 pm
Flowers in the Windows
9, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
This botanical themed cafe is filled with lush greenery and pretty floral arrangements, all tied together with its rustic vintage decor.
I’ve personally given this one a miss because of my flower pollen allergies, but if you’re looking for a photogenic spot to add to your itinerary, this definitely looks like one for the gram!
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm
The Replacement
34, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
We happened to pass by this Melbourne inspired brunch cafe and boutique lodge after our meals, so all we could do was snap a few candid shots with their iconic colourful chairs with faces for memory’s sake.
It’s still on my to-try list, especially after reading that they’re known for their soft-shell crab bao and specialty coffees. Definitely one to keep in mind for the next JB trip!
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 4.30 pm (Friday till 5 pm)
99° Durian Culture
14, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
It wasn’t open when we were there, but the menu suggests that it’s an eatery that serves food and beverages infused with durian flavours. If durian is your thing, here’s a place for you to explore.
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 pm to 9 pm
Mollie Makes
30, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
This is a modern traditional Chinese dessert cafe, complete with the charm of a traditional Chinese teahouse.
With the dreamy smoke, flowing drapes and lush plants, we couldn’t help but feel like we had stepped into another world. We were also spoilt for choice with their extensive selection of drinks and desserts, and eventually settled on the Soy Pudding, Red Bean Black Sesame Milk Tea, and Yam Paste Milk Tea with Cheese Foam. Worth noting that the shop provides free water dispenser for customers.
Everything was right up our alley, and we’ll definitely be back to work our way through more of the menu next time!
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 am to 8 pm
The Ice Cream Project
31, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
Back in 2018, I brought my then toddler here for some sweet treats and took a zillion photos at this very spot. So glad to find them still around, serving up their signature ice cream freshly made right in front of you using liquid nitrogen. The shop prides itself on using fresh, homemade ingredients, which gives their ice cream a rich, thick texture that doesn’t melt as quickly. Do give their ice cream a try. There must be good reasons they’ve been around for last 8 years and counting!
Opening Hours: Daily from 12 pm to 11 pm
Ancora Gelato & Bakery
29, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
If Gelato is something you lean towards, you can find Ancora Gelato 2 doors down. Some unique flavours spotted include The Pu Er and Osmanthus Oolong, Japanese Cucumber and Tofu.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 10 pm (Fri-Sat till 11.30 pm)
IT Roo Cafe
17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
An eatery that proudly boasts about serving the “Best Chicken Chop in Town.” We first tried it back in 2018, and later heard our local Malaysian friends talk about it too.
Their signature chicken chop comes either golden fried or grilled, served with wedges and coleslaw, with a choice of mushroom or black pepper sauce. Since my then toddler wasn’t quite a fan of chicken chops, we opted for the fried rice instead.
There’s both air-conditioned indoor seating and alfresco seating available, making it a convenient spot for a casual meal.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 am to 8.30 pm
Donuf
26, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
Donuf is a popular artisanal bakery in Johor Bahru, best known for its unique donut-and-cream-puff hybrid pastry, said to be Malaysia’s first of its kind. From the reviews we’ve read, it’s a delightful cross between a crispy doughnut and a soft, pillowy cream puff, generously filled with cream that oozes out with the very first bite.
With so many tempting treats to try, it’s quite obvious that one simply can’t stomach everything in a single trip! Definitely adding Donuf to the list for our next visit.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 9:30 PM (Sat-Sun until 10:30PM)
Tan Hiok Nee Street Guide
Often regarded as the historic heart, or “Chinatown,” of Johor Bahru, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is an enchanting heritage street lined with restored shophouses, trendy cafés, and boutique shops. It’s also home to the legendary Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory, famous for its wood-fired banana cake.
Strolling along the street feels like a journey between Johor Bahru’s rich heritage and everyday local life. It’s definitely worth a visit if you enjoy exploring local history, retro architecture, and vibrant food culture all in one place.
Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory
13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru
If you’re new to Hiap Joo, they’re famous for their signature wood-fired banana cakes, and it’s not uncommon to see long queues of Singaporeans making the trip over just for them.
They’re so popular that you can even find vending machines in Singapore malls dispensing freshly baked banana cakes, which are restocked daily. Talk about a banana cake worth crossing the border for!
Opening Hours: 7.30 am to 4.30 pm (closed on Sunday), or till sold out.
Restoran Kin Hua (锦华茶室)
8, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru
Technically, it’s located at Jalan Trus, but it sits right opposite Hiap Joo Banana Cake, making it a convenient stop for anyone queuing or exploring this stretch to rest up and enjoy a kueh or two.The coffeeshop itself is simple and cosy, without much fuss or fancy decor. But don’t let its unassuming appearance fool you. We tried their soon kuehs and thought they were really good!
Opening Hours: 5.30 am to 5 pm (closed on Tuesday)
Roast & Coffee
62 & 63, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru
Often spotted with long queues, Roast & Coffee is an air-conditioned Nanyang kopitiam with a retro charm.
I was lucky enough to snag a seat right in front of their iconic window featuring a bread-toast silhouette. I ordered the Seafood Mihun and, boy, was it good! I didn’t have enough room in my stomach to try more dishes during our last visit, so that definitely gives me a reason to come back for another round.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 am to 5 pm
Piki PoPs – Real Fruit Ice Cream
61, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Johor Bahru
A striking yellow hut along the heritage street immediately caught our attention as we stepped out of Roast & Coffee. I loved their quirky signboard with googly eyes that actually move, such a clever little gimmick to catch the eye of passers by!
If you’re in the area and looking for something refreshing to beat the sweltering heat, Piki Pops serves New Zealand style ice cream, smoothies, and local flavoured desserts in convenient takeaway cups. A fun little stop for a cool treat while exploring the heritage streets.
Opening Hours: Monday – closed, Tues – 11 am to 4.30 pm, Wed-Fri – 11 am to 5 pm, Sat-Sun – 11 am to 8 pm
Tapu Tart
15, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru
After our meal at Roast & Coffee, my girls and I hopped over to Tapu Tart and picked up some above average egg tarts. Their tall walled tarts come with crispy layered pastry shell and a rich silky custard, a pretty satisfying combination.
Besides the usual egg tart flavours, they also offer more adventurous sweet options like Musang King, Brown Sugar Mochi, and Belgium Choco, as well as savoury flavours such as Curry Potato and Nyonya Otak.
These are definitely quite filling, so they make a great option to pack back to Singapore and enjoy over a couple of days with the family.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7 am to 6 pm
Nana Collections
15, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru
Tucked right beside Tapu Tart is this quaint little boutique lifestyle store that instantly gives off Taiwan-meets-Korean vibes. The chic collection is filled with all sorts of pretty finds, from aesthetic tableware and cutesy hand towels to trendy earrings going for just 2 pairs at RM15.
They also carry a good selection of women’s bags and apparel, and I managed to score a top that I absolutely adored. If you’re already in the area, pop by and have a browse, you might just find a little something to bring home!
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Dona Bakehouse
14, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru
While queuing for breakfast, we spotted this pretty café right next to Hiap Joo Bakery and decided to pop in for a look. The spacious, brightly lit interior feels warm and inviting, with friendly staff keeping things running smoothly despite the bustling crowd.
I was particularly drawn to their merchandise, from quirky pink tennis balls and plain tees with simple yet eye catching prints to minimalist totes. We also picked up some kouign amann to try, and they definitely did not disappoint. A lovely little find that we’re glad we stumbled upon!
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Fri-Sun till 6:30PM)
Miscellaneous Nearby
There are more good food that sit outside these three streets, and I’m going to just point you to two more popular ones that we have been patronizing.
Kam Long Curry Fishhead
74, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru
We’ve been enjoying their claypot curry fish head since before Covid, and it was so popular that during the pandemic, they even shipped their frozen curry packs to Singapore through group buys!
Each claypot comes generously loaded with fish and plenty of accompanying ingredients such as cabbage, tau kee, okra, and tomatoes, all at a very affordable price.
With such a strong reputation for their signature dish, they don’t feel the need to offer an extensive menu that caters to non spicy eaters. That said, we definitely appreciate how relaxed they are about kids bringing in outside food. We’ve packed udon or buns for the kids on previous visits, and they were perfectly happy for them to eat alongside us. Definitely a family-friendly spot!
Opening Hours: Daily from 8.30 am to 4 pm
Restoran Ya Huang
44 Jalan Segget Bandar Johor Bahru
Claiming to be the consultant behind Dian Xiao Er’s signature herbal duck, this local eatery serves a similar style herbal duck alongside a selection of other roast meats. It’s a go-to spot for my sisters, who are big fans of herbal duck.
You’ll also spot a huge roast duck statue perched on top of the shophouse, definitely hard to miss! If you’re a fan of herbal duck and roast meats, this is one place worth checking out.
Opening Hours: 8 am to 6 pm (closed on Wednesday)
Gems near CIQ
Wandering through JB’s heritage streets is always an adventure. From the old school flavours along Jalan Trus, where Teochew and Hainanese eats sit just steps apart, to the trendy dessert spots along Jalan Dhoby and the characterful shophouses of Tan Hiok Nee, there’s always something new to discover.
Save this list for your next JB day trip and make a day out of exploring, eating and wandering!
